Peter, who managed to regain his confident composure yet sighing uneasily and trailed off a bit sheepishly. “Perhaps….I should better clear things out further…..”
Right after Uatus departure, the entire meeting was prolonged even further. There were still so many matter in hand to discuss, so many questions to answer and uncertainties to be cleared. Uautus testimony and warnings of upcoming threat to entire Equestria, that actually might be much bigger then expected. Not just Grogar, but also a danger from the side of Elementals, Lavan, Squirk and Arabus being about to awaken from their slumber any time soon, but also some strange and mysterious dark entity with a seemingly omnipotent powers, yet remaining stuck in Shadow World dimension, which could be at least some good news.
Just like from the early morning, as the noon was slowly coming, the meeting between Peter, Twilight, Princess Celestia, Luna, Cadance, Chrysalis, Shining Armor, Elements of Harmony and Spike, could be considered so far the longest one that has ever been led.
Peter, sitting once again in his seat at the table between Twilight and Applejack and having both gifts from Uatu, Dimensional Dilation Accelerator as well as infamous “supposed” copy of Crimson Gem of Cyttorak, safely secured in a magic proof box on the table decide to break a silence, as the entire Throne Room had been unusually silent for quite some time, evident from everyponys yet lasting astonishment from their unexpected alien visit.
Peter cleared his throat as he spoke off and somewhat chuckling offhandedly. “So…..What do you guys think? That has definitely not been any ordinary unexpected visit you would ever get every day.”
“Uatu has been indeed an unusual yet admirable fellow. An immensely powerful alien from another dimension who is tasked only to observe and never interfere into happening of other beings, yet breaking his oath so many times in order to aid and help humanity and the others….This can be experienced or seen only once for a lifetime.” Luna stated, still unable to fully supress her evident awe.
“I agree with you Luna.” Princess Celestia sitting back in her seat with her sun like cutie mark symbol on agreed with her younger sister. “Uatus warning and information has given a brand new look at the situation. At least it gives us some time to come up with a strategy. With Grogar and his enhanced magical abilities, Elementals who could awaken soon as well as according Uatus testimony with those Elemental Stones and Grogars Gem of Darkness all combined and a power over reality and space, we must be ready for anything.” Sun Princess stated even yet decisively.
“Is that even possible?” Pinkie Pie asked curiously. “I mean…All with those gems all together and reality warping thingie?”
“Pinkie…” Peter interjected. “If you just recollected a row of weird things in the last seven years, like all-powerful Norman Osborn possessing a reality warping powers, facing and fighting an Equestrian version of Yeti, as well as experiencing a near post-apocalyptic alternate future…..I personally would be a complete idiot if I didn’t believe on that stuff.” Stallion stated bluntly, earning an exasperated groan from Twilight, yet smirk from Spike.
“Oh….Yeah. Silly me.” Pinkie chuckled for herself embarrassed.
“Um….” Fluttershy meekly trailed out. “But….What about that mysterious and ominous entity from Shadow World Uatu has talked about?” Shy pegasus shivered a bit from fear, yet she managed to calm herself down as Rarity placed her hoof on yellow pegasus shoulder.
However, by the mention of that, Luna exhaled a bit and just like by her yesterday nightmare as well by Uatus warnings once again started slightly trembling in terror. The image of the exactly same dark and ominous entities shadowed form that the Watcher mentioned with an evil red eyes as well as blazing mouth materialized in her mind. In the moment, Moon goddess was even more apprehensive then by the mere thoughts of the nightmares over Nightmare Moon.
Once again, sensing her little sisters sudden trepidation, Celestia placed her hoof on Lunas gently, waking moon princess from her self-induced trance. "Don’t you want to confess anything with us, Luna?” Sun princess asked gently as Luna shifted her gaze to her older sister questioningly. However, Celestia scowled a little, yet her tome was firm yet still gentle. “Don’t look at me like that. Something is definitely on your mind. I could sense it even since yesterday….What is it, little sister? You can tell us.” Celestias firm tone dissipated and turning into a gentle and carrying as she nuzzled her head against hers affectionately.
Calmed and assured by her sister, Luna though shifted her gaze to Peter, who only denied a warm, reassuring smile and nodding his head, instructing Luna to go on. Princess of the moon returned her own warm smile to the fullest as she was now completely calmed ready to admit it.
“The last day….” Luna exhaled in a defeated yet reassured manner. “I had a very strange nightmare. And I have seen exactly the same strange, mysterious and dark entity of a gastly and shadowed form Uatu has been talking about, right in the Shadow World.” Luna testified about the nightmare, which earned a collected gazes from the others, especially Celestia and Peter looked concerned about Luna.
“Do you have any idea, what that might be, princess?” Rarity asked carefully, yet fashionistas voice sounded somehow restrained.
“Even I don’t know, Rarity.” Luna sheepishly replied. “But….I could hear its laugher. However…it has not bee just any ordinary laugher. It sounded so sinister….so devious…..so…..evil. Whatever it is…it is something ancient….and pure evil…ready to escape from Shadow World. Like anything we have never encountered before.” Moon princess stated uncharacteristically in a near strained whispers, yet she once again managed to calm down and Celestia placed her hoof on her shoulder.
“Well, whatever it is…” Now Applejack stated. “Ah guess we may be just glad, that unlike Grogar, it couldn’t teleport and it cannot escape from Shadow World all by itself. So, as long as it remains in there, there is practically nothing to be concerned about that so far, right?” Farm pony tried to make a reason with everypony sitting around as she actually managed to relief a tension in the air a bit.
“Applejack is right.” Cadance stated, agreeing with orange mares statement. “Right now, we should better focus on matters in hand.” Pink alicorn suggested as both Celestia and Luna only nod in agreement. “And what about that device and gem, Uatu has given us?” Cadance asked after a while and turning her attention to an advanced camera like device and anti-magic box on the table near to Peters and Twilights position.
“Perhaps, I should better explain.” Peter took over as he grabbed Dimensional Dilation Accelerator so as everypony could see it. “So, this little toy, once called as Time Dilation Accelerator, as Uatu has already explained, it can open interdimensional portals into an alternate dimension known as Limbo, allowing for a near-instant travel between two points.”
“Like a teleportation via magic.” Twilight exhaled unable to supress her fascination with the device.
“Yeah. Something like that, honey.” Peter nod his head, complimenting his wifes observation.
However, before anypony could notice, Pinkie stalked right between Peters and Applejacks seat and checked the device curiously. “How does this thingie even works?” Pink mare asked as like she couldn’t help herself and reaching her hoof to a main red button.
“Pinkie! NO!!!” Peter jerked out in a warning, trying to stop the mare from touching the button, but it was too late.
As pinkie pressed the button, everpony shrieked in an utter shock, with Spike even falling from Peters seat, hitting the ground grunting in pain, as a camera like zoom fired a grey energy like beam, narrowly missing the mare and in the instance it opened a big blackened spiralling portal. And before Pinkie realized, she squeaked as she was sucked right into the portal, which immediately closed.
Everypony just stared dumbfounded what had just transpired, unable to shake their awe with their mouths agape. “What by the stars has just happened?!” Princess Celestia exhaled with an unusually bewildered and rather freaked out tone.
“Pinkie has accidently opened an interdimensional portal!” Peter jerked out bewildered. “She is trapped in a Limbo.”
“In what?!” Shining Armor blurted out disbelief.
“Oh, never mind that.” Peter replied somewhat frustrated and grabbed the Dimensional Dilation Accelerator.
“Peter!” Twilight exhaled worryingly, evidently concerned about her friends safety. “Can you bring Pinkie back?”
“I can.” Peter replied reassuringly. “But the coordinates had never been set. I have to track her in order to open another portal to bring her back.”
“Interesting,….Then get on to it!” Spike spoken peacefully yet then he burst out, instructing Peter to do something.
“Alright.” Peter replied as he started pressing the buttons on device display. “Just give a while.”
Meanwhile, Pinkie found herself in the absolutely different place, maybe even in some sort of an alternate dimension with a mixed yellow and white clouds along with some black spots and dozens of different black portals.
The mare, however against her own will was floating or rather free falling and flying uncontrollably from one portal to another, shifting her position from one different place to another and appearing literally everywhere across the place.
However, instead of being freak out, Pinkie on the contrast seemed to be enjoying this all on the fullest, squeaking and cheering in joy and smiling happily.
“WWWHHHIIIIIEEEEE!!!” Pinkie exulted literally out of the joy, enjoying her ride.
It was almost just like being on a rollercoaster, though a little different.
Back in the real world, Peter was still pressing several buttons of the Dimensional Dilation Accelerators screen like crazy, doing everything in his power to bring Pinkie back. The stallion gritted his teeth, a nervous expression as well as sweat forming on his forehead.
“Ehm…No pressure Pete….” Rainbow, who was flipping her wings and keeping herself in the mid-air, said somewhat calmly, yet all of the sudden she burst out in a near frustration. “But couldn’t you hurry up!?”
“Hey! I am science geek. Not a miracle worker.” Peter replied, evidently frustrated as well, yet he was also worrying sick of Pinkie and he was working like mad to bring his pink ever happy and overly excitable friend back. “Wait….I think I got it.” Peter suddenly exhaled with a hope in his voice as he finally managed to set the coordinates and pressing the same red button again.
In the instance and just like before, a camera screen unleashed another grey beam that projected exactly the same portal that sucked Pinkie in. Yet, strangely and all of the sudden, Peters Spider Sense started ringing in the back of his cranium.
“Oh crap!” Peter muttered, but before he could figure out what kind of danger might be coming and ready to brace himself, there was already too late. In the same moment, Pinkie literally zipped out of the portal with speed of a missile and knocking Peter down in the process as he dropped the Accelerator. But luckily, Spike managed to grab the camera before it could hit the floor.
Peter and Pinkie hit the marble floor, making several rolls as the eventually halted and Peter found himself, buried under Pinkies frame, groaning painfully. “Are you guys alright?” Both Twilight and Fluttershy rushed to Pinkies and Peters side.
“Yeah. Thanks for asking.” Peter muttered as he was still lying under Pinkies bum. “You can live without one kidney, cannot you?” He groaned both sarcastically and painfully.
Pinkie on the other hoof cheered out joyously. “WOOOCHUUUU! May I give it one more time?!” Unfortunately, for the dismay, the mare earned collective and scolding like glares from the others. Pinkie sheepishly chuckled nervously and waving her hoof helplessly. “Echm….Whatever.”
Sometime later, after Pinkies accidental and unexpected trip into a limbo everypony were considering what had been just transpired. “I really hate to say this….” Luna trailed off, judging the situation. “Not that I wouldn’t appreciate Uatus help as he has offered us Dimensional Dilation Accelerator…but that thing is unpredictable and very dangerous to use in bad hooves.”
“You can say that again, Luna.” Peter chuckled sheepishly, like he would sympathize with moon princess. “Even I had some experience with that doohickey back in Earth. And I can tell you, it gave me some trouble.”
Luna eyed the stallion questioningly by his response. “What do you mean, Peter? May you enlighten us and tell us more about that device?”
“You see…” Peter started explaining. “Dimensional Dilation Accelerator, once known as Time Dilation Accelerator had been originally designed and created by Jonathan Ohn, a brilliant scientist, working for Stark Enterprises directly under Tony Stark himself.”
“For Tony Stark you say?” Twilight exhaled in awe. “No way.!
“I see…” Luna agreed, yet knowing that Peter had something more to say.
“However, fearing this interdimensional travel might be too dangerous, Stark eventually stopped the project. Ohn, unfortunately had the opposite intentions. He continued in his research and even having an accident as the portals attached themselves to Ohn as he gain an ability to open the portals at will. He than intended to use his newly gained abilities for criminal purposes, calling himself…The Spot.”
“ Eeergh! No offence, Chrys.” Peter muttered sheepishly by a mention of the word “spot”, as he shifted his gaze to changeling queen.
Though, having no idea, what the stallion was talking about, Chrysalis managed a smile. “None take, Peter.”
“Mr Stark had done a right thing that he stopped that research.” Rarity stated in relief. “Otherwise, there is not telling how horrible things could some bad ponies – I mean people, just like that Jonathan Ohn do with that.”
“Unfortunately…” Peter went on. “There was a time when Spot opened so much portals, which then started growing into one single massive portal, so big that it could literally swallow the entire planet.” Everypony sitting in the table gasped in shock by the mention.
“How horrible!” Fluttershy exhaled slightly frightened. “Um…Peter? How did that end up?”
Peter, being silent for a while denied a smile though with as slight saddened gaze. “Well….Ohn, feeling guilty for his actions, tried to make things right. And I even assisted him in the process. Unfortunately, the portal was already so big, that there was no way for Spot to close it from outside. So….” Peter than proceed with a somewhat solemn or saddened tone.
Everypony, sensing the stallions change in mood, Rarity asked carefully. “What happened next, darling?”
Peter sighed solemnly. “Unfortunately, there was no other option left. Ohn had to jump right into the portal in order to close it from inside. He succeeded, but unfortunately trapping himself inside and unable to return. Seemingly forever lost in the Limbo.”
Everypony at the table gasped in shock, yet holding a minute of solemn silence. After a while, Luna dared to speak. “Though I don’t agree or appreciating Ohns deeds, as he intended to use Time Dilation Accelerator as well as his newly gained abilities for bad things, I can appraise his change of heart in the darkest of situation as he willingly jumped right into that portal in order to close it.” Princess of the moon spoken solemnly. And yet, though she wouldn’t admit it, deep down, she was impressed by Ohns sacrifice.
“Everypony – or rather everyone can change their own ways.” Princess Celestia was next to speak with her usual gentle note. “If they have a will to or having something worth or special to do so.” Everpony in the Throne Room nod their heads, quietly honouring the Ohns own sacrifice.
“Anyway. I think that shouldn’t discourage us use it.” Twilight trailed off with a motivated tone and raising her hoof as everypony at the table faced her. “Besides, Uatu came such a long way to warn us about upcoming danger and even giving us this advanced technology as well as that magical gem. He entrusted us to use his gifts for good and I guess it would the best from us to return him a favour by doing so.”
Twilights words were full of reason, wisdom and motivation that just couldn’t be ignored or denied as everypony around her could do nothing but agree. And Princess Celestia couldn’t be so proud on her former dearest student as she had ever been.
“Chm. That is my wife.” Peter chuckled smugly as he nudged Twilight playfully and planting a soft kiss on her cheek affectionately. “Well….If we of course can keep Pinkies hooves away from the Dimensional Dilation Accelerator. Or otherwise, next time she could even pull an alien octopus on us.” Stallion stated sarcastically and shifting his gaze to Pinkie and glaring at her a little, causing the mare to chuckle sheepishly.
“Hey, Pete.” Rainbow Dash spoke off and shifting her gaze to Peter and the ant-magic box. “Now that doohickey is behind us, how about you finally mind to explains us what in the buck was that whole performance you showcased before with that fancy red gem that Uatu had given us?”
“You know….” Cadance interjected, sympathizing with her blue pegasus disbelief. “I would like to know as well, Peter. Do you actually recognize that crystal? And we have you been so scared of it that you locked it right into anti-magic box?”
“Is it….” Twilight spoke off in a near whisper, leaning closer to Peter and placing her hoof on his shoulder. “Somewhat dangerous or something, Peter?” She asked carefully.
Peter, knowing that there was no way how to make his way out of it or to find some cheap excuse, yet knowing his beloved wife and friends would understand, stallion released a defeated sigh as he once again put his Twilight Arms gauntlets on, taking the anti-magic box, unlocking it with a key and slowly opening it so everypony could see a beautiful crimson gem, that unfortunately held a terrible power.
“Take a closer look, guys.” Peter said a little offhandedly if not even nervous a bit as he showed the gem to the others. “Beauty. Is it not?”
Everypony around the table, leaned forward from their seats to take a closer look at the crystal in the box. Even Princess Celestia, Luna and Cadance couldn’t help but being rather amazed by its unusual shape. That was indeed the most peculiar crystal they had ever seen and one that even cannot be found in Equestria. Yet, there was something strange on it, like it would radiate some sort of a great power of unspeakable amounts.
“It…Looks pretty tasty.” Spike who seemed affected the most by the gems beauty and literally staring at it with his puppy dog like eyes, mumbled with his mouth watering and drooling, evident by his temptation to eat it.
However, Rarity on the other hoof, who also seemed affected by the gems unique shape and beauty the most of all, that could literally exceed even a fire ruby that Spike once willingly gave her. White unicorn could see her reflection in it, giggling uncontrollably with her face literally dazed as she couldn’t get enough look of the gem.
That however, would last even eons if Applejack didn’t wake the unicorn from her trance by nudging. Rarity eventually managed to recollect her senses, yet she giggled for herself. “I must say, darling…..That is really the most beautiful and peculiar crystal I have ever seen. I know it the best myself, therefore, I am using gems and crystals to decorate my dresses. Oooh, what could I just give in return to have it for myself. It would be perfect into my collection so I could use it for decoration or as a necklace.”
Peter, however huffed somewhat contemptuously as he once again grabbed the box and pulling it closer to himself out of reach of others. “Trust me guys…” Stallion shifted his uneasy gaze to both Spike and Rarity alike. “This gem would definitely give you tummy ache, little buddy. And Rare, trust me. You would definitely thing this over before having your hooves of it, if you knew the truth.”
“Oh come on, Pete!” Rainbow Dash huffed unladylike in exasperation, with her patience slowly decreasing. “Just spit it out. What is that gem all about.”
Peter sighed exasperated as he held the box tightly. “This gem is nothing, but trouble. Trust me. Because it is a Crimson Gem of Cyttorak for crying out loud.”
By the once again mentioning that weird name, Princess Celestia and Luna looked at each other questioningly with their expressions bewildered. “Eeeh….Cyttorak?” Luna muttered bewildered, obviously having no idea what Peter was talking about.
“What is….Cyttorak?” Shinning Armour asked carefully, being aware of Peters odd change of behaviour by the gem.
"Cyttorak.....Cyttorak......Cytorak?" Princess Celestia murmured to hereself quite astonished and baffled alike, repeating a very strange name that by the way didnt sounded well, much for everyponies collective awe, yet however as hard as the Ruler of Equestria tried to made something out and despite her long-time wisdom and advanced knowledge of magic and supernatural, that name didnt rung a bell in the slightest to Celestia shaking her head dismissively. "No. I hear that name for the first time."
Peter, who managed to regain his confident composure yet sighing uneasily and trailed off a bit sheepishly. “Perhaps….I should better clear things out further…..”
“You see….Back on Earth, thousands of years ago, there were eight powerful beings of magical power so called as Octessence, that gathered together and started arguing over whose power was the greatest. So, each of them created a totems that held a fraction of its creators vast power, building their own temples as the artefacts would turn the first one who touches it into so called Exemplar, a living embodiment of that power.”
“However, there was one of Octessence, an immensely powerful deity, called as....Cyttorak, ruler of his own alternate dimension called Crimson Cosmos and arguably the greatest of the eight. His origins remains shrouded in mystery, yet he was once worshipped on Earth, before he was banished into Crimson Cosmos. However, it was also him who created his very own totem of virtually limitless magical power…..the Crimson Gem of Cyttorak. He also once tricked and ordered monks into building his own temple in an area of Korea. The gem then lied hidden in the temple for hundreds of years, hidden from the outside world.”
“But, in the modern days, during a Korean war, the temple was discovered by a person named….Cain Marko. Once touching the gem, Cain was empowered by its mystical energies and transforming him into an immortal avatar of the Cytorrak himself, who was also a supplier of its vast corrupting power.”
“But, you may also recognize and known him…….as The Juggernaut.”
By the time Peter explained the details about the Crimson Gem of Cyttorak, everypony in the table was in awe, unable to say a word with their mouth practically agape. Though, despite the raising tension about the gem, Rarity cleared her throat, turning her attention to Peter and asked carefully.
“Peter….Juggernaut you say? That monstrous brute you showed us and fought with him back on Earth several years ago?” White unicorn stuttered nervously, seemingly affected by Peters explanation of the gem and its corrupting powers.
“Yup. That is him.” Peter replied both bluntly and sheepishly. “The Earth has many immensely powerful beings and superheroes like Thor, God of Thunder, The Incredible Hulk, the strongest hero there is or Invincible Armor Ironman. But in Juggernauts case….It all may the an overkill. Just try to imagine a guy having a virtually limitless physical superhuman strength to literally move and shatter mountains, lifting buildings as a weapons, being surrounded by invisible force field that makes him virtually invulnerable to any forms of injury and once moving, no force of Earth could stop him.”
Everypony just stared at Peters in utter shock bewildered, some of them even unable to breath or to handle or take the words he had just said about such an overwhelming and destructive powers Juggernaut possessed via Crimson Gem of Cyttorak that was a source and supplier of his powers.
“Oh, by the stars….” Even Princess Celestia, a calm, calculated and deliberate ruler of Equestria also seemed somewhat apprehensive, yet trying to regain her confident composure, though it was difficult.
Paying the stallions and dragons quirky conversation no mind, Chrysalis spoke off in quite an offended tone. “This is really unacceptable. If Uatu knew that Crimson Gem of Cyttorak is corrupting and dangerous, why would he even give it to us? I wonder that he didn’t rather destroy it when he had a chance.”
“Mhhm. I agree with you Chrysalis as well as with Peters worries.” Princess Celestia, who already regained her confident composure could do nothing but frankly agree with changeling queens statement and Peters odd behaviour with the gem. “The power of that gem is way too great and dangerous to use for everyone and everypony. Yet, we also cannot risk it to fall into bad hooves or even worse….Grogars.” Princess of the sun said decisively.
“Eghm….Auntie?“ Cadance spoke off, addressing her adoptive aunt.
“Yes, Cadance? What is it?” Sun goddess replied calmly and watching her niece like she had something important on her mind.
“I also agree with your statement as well as understanding Peters worries. But Uatu also said, that this Crimson Gem of Cyttorak is a mere duplicate of the original one. And I very well know that duplicates of the some magical objects, crystals or even Crystal Heart may have the same properties, yet they have not the same level of power and potential of the originals.” Cadance explained carefully. “If you don’t mind, I would like to check the gem out further. Maybe we could use it in our advantage after all.”
Celestia, though feeling a bit hesitant and reluctant about observing the gem, especially what she heard from Peters own confession and bad experience, yet having a faith in her adoptive niece and Princess of the Crystal Empire, sun princess eventually managed a careful yet serene smile. “Alright than, Cadance. But please, be careful ad don’t touch it.” Celestia warned, as Cadance merely nod her head with smile as well.
Peter on the other hoof was about to protect, he was about to stood up from his seat and opening his mouth, but before he could object, Twilight placed her hoof on her stallion shoulder and denied him a warm and reassuring smile as well as blinking with her right eye. Calmed down by her wifes accommodation, Peter returned the smile on the fullest and sitting back to his seat.
Cadance than pulled the anti-magic box with Crimson Gem of Cyttorak to her position via telekinesis. She than concentrated her magic and aimed her light blue glowing horn right to gem, performing something like a scanning spell, trying to learn more about its real properties and potential.
“So…” Applejack interjected. “What are we going to do about that Grogar fella, the Elementals and that strange, dark entity from Shadow World?”
“I guess the best thing we can do right now is to monitor the lands, especially north-west where Grogar currently resides according Peters Spider Tracer.” Twilight suggested carefully, yet earning a simple yet understanding nod from her former mentor.
“I shall assemble the best of our Royal Guards and making them both alert and battle ready.” Shining Armor stated firmly as he bumped his hoof on his chest.
“And I shall entrust my changelings to scout the land. If they see anything suspicious or dangerous, they will inform me about it telepathically.” Chrysalis offered her part of help as well from the side of her changelings.
“Eghm.” Rainbow Dash interjected. “But when Grogar with his already increased magical abilities, able to take on Peter, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna and Cadance strikes again…..Than what?” The pegasus statement caused everypony in the Throne Room to grow silent, all (with an exception of Cadance that was still examining the Crimson Gem of Cyttorak with her magic) looking at each other questioningly brooding and trying to come up with a suitable answer or solution.
“Don’t everypony answer all at once.” Spike exhaled out offhandedly, though nopony paid a mind to little dragons mares humorous remark.
However, after a while of brooding and silence and a slight tension present in the atmosphere, Peter suddenly rose up from his seat, clearing his throat aloud as he snapped everypony from their brooding self-induced trance as everypony shifted their collective gazes to stallion. Peter, of course immediately started regretting his move and finding himself in a rather uneasy situation as everypony was watching him, making the stallion to feel steadily nervous and even shivering a bit with a sweat forming on his head.
Yet, Peter felt as Twilight hoof once again gently patted his shoulder, as the mare denied a warm smile, trying to encourage and support her husband to be strong to make some important statement. Ultimately calmed and reassured his wife, Peter faced the others with more confidence.
“Guys…Princess Celestia.” Peter spoke off confidently and holding his ground, addressing everyone around the table, including the princess of the sun. “I have been thinking for quite some time, though I have never openly mentioned it…...But I guess and believe I would have a solution for our problem with Grogar.”
Peters declaration earned a collective and somewhat amazed gazes from the others.
“Yes, Peter…? I am listening.” Princess Celestia spoke with her calm and gentle, yet just like the others, even sun princess couldn’t resist to wonder what Peters idea might be. Though, deep down she knew it might be something good.
“You see….” Peter started and clearing his throat once again. “Back on Earth, there had been quite a familiar accident with some crazy, megalomaniacal supervillain trying to take over the world. His name was Graviton, a guy with an ability to control and manipulate one of the greatest force in the entire universe: Gravity. With such power, he represented a severe threat for entire world.”
“And that was a day unlike any other. When earths mightiest heroes found united against a common threat, that they could face by their own. So, they combined and assembled their might and together as one took Graviton down. An Invincible Armor Ironman. Thor, Prince of Thunder. The Hulk, The Strongest Hero There is. Along with Antman, a genius with an ability to regulate his size at will and Wasp, a superheroine that could shrink, able to grow wasp like wings and firing bio-electrical blasts from her hands. And then later, Captain America, The First Avenger.”
“On that day….They became The Avengers, the earths mightiest heroes, fighting such foes and threats no single superhero could withstand."
As Peter finished his statement about the Avengers, the earths mightiest heroes, as they were formed in order to stop Graviton with their combined might, everypony sitting around the table seemed even more amazed by stallions suggestion, once again they all looked at each other questioningly, like they would try to figure out what was that all about.
“If I understand it right, Peter…..” Shinning Armor trailed off questioningly. “Do you actually intent to bring those…Avengers here into Equestria via that dimensional projector device to help us fight Grogar?”
“No, Shining. Not that. Yet amazingly....You have been quite close, though.” Peter surprisingly denied Royal Guards captains guess. “Because at first, they have lots of their own problems back on Earth. And second, Equestria is my responsibility -- I mean ours to protects against evil.” Peter proclaimed decisively. “I have just been wondering….That we just could do exactly the same thing like they had. We will assemble a very special team of unique individuals/ponies. Strong and formidable enough to oppose Grogar and taking him down.”
“The Harmony Avengers.” Peter stated proudly, addressing the teams by its own name.
Peters suggestion, being by the way very rich and unique for everypony be as astonished or bewildered as much as they were about Uatu the Watchers unexpected visit, yet also quite unusual and confusing, resulted into a series of different options. Yet, most of them were already well familiar with the heroes from Earth, which Peter mentioned multiple times and telling so much about their great things and deeds that the Avengers do every day to save the world.
“Forming a very special team to fight Grogar, you say, Peter?” Luna exhaled in awe yet carefully considering the possibility, by Peters own unique suggestion.
"You mean....Something like an elite task force?" Shinning Armor asked with a bewildered expression as a younder stallion merely nod his head in agrrement.
“The Harmony Avengers?” Rainbow Dash whispered by the mention of the teams title, though everypony could see the pegasus astonishment in her face. “That’s pretty cool title. I really like that.”
“Ooow!” Pinkie squeaked in joy. “It is actually pretty fitting. I mean, like Elements of Harmony. Get it?”
“Peter….” Twilight addressed her stallion with a both bewildered yet impressed expression. “Are you serious about this?”
“Sure. Why not?” Peter replied without hesitation with an excited expression and smiling widely. “To tell you all the truth, I have been somehow dreaming about having my -- I mean, ours own unique team of superheroes in Equestrian like style, just like the Avengers, Fantastic Four or X-Men for quite some time.”
“Oh boy. Does that sound from somepony I know.] Shining muttered under his breath for himself in a whisper both in a exasperated and sarcastic manner.
“And besides….” Peter went on, being oblivious by Shinings obvious annoyed expression. “It also would be perfectly legal and acceptable in my option. As I have learned, even Wonderbolts were originally formed from earth ponies, pegasus and unicorns Royal Guards to protect peace and order. Right?” Stallion then turned to Celestia, like he would like to how is he was right.
Princess Celestia who remained silent for a while, considered Peters idea about forming a team of “superheroes” by patting a her chin with a golden plated hoof. “You are apparently right, Peter.” Sun princess agreed.” Though, at the celebration of the first celestial year of peace, an elite team of aerial performers had been chosen to help commemorate the occasion.”
“But, anyway….” Chrysalis spoke somehow objectively. “I know that your intentions are pure and noble and you are trying to do the best for all of us, darling. But….I quite don’t understand why do you actually want to form that…superhero team of yours, when we already have Royal Guards, Elements of Harmony and you, Spider-Mane, a Knight of Equestria.”
“That is just the idea, Chris.” Peter tried to make a reason and addressing the Changeling queen, causing the mare to lower her head on a side a bit, wondering. “It is true that Elements of Harmony are grate and extremely effective against evil and dark forces, that they could virtually put Reeds Ultimate Nullifier to shame. But try to understand, everypony….” Peter trailed off with very serious tone and lacking any of his trademark humour in it. “Elements of Harmony are just way too precious to use. Do you remember the time when Discord was able to corrupt the Elements and turning Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie and Fluttershy against each other?”
“Though, luckily Twilight managed to recuperate her friends along with the Elements and eventually with their combined might using the elements power to seal Discord into a statue. Yet…It was really a close one and you could probably consider yourself lucky.”
Peters declaration once again and probably never ceasing to amaze his friends as well as Royal Sisters, who look at each other with their gazes bewildered and considering stallions words, that were nothing but a pure truth and a fair reason to be suspicious.
“That…Actually explains everything.” Shinning Amor blurted out, yet having a deep understanding for his friends words.
“I actually agree with Peters statement.” Twilight joined her husbands side, standing firmly for his opinion. “This just might be the case for an alternative. To form….Harmony Avengers team so it could take on Grogar and using Elements of Harmony as a backup if anything would go wrong.” Twilight than glanced to Royal Sisters hopefully. “Well….If it is alright with you, of course….Princess Celestia….Princess Luna."
Celestia and Luna shared a mutual glance as they eventually smiled and nodding in agreement. Celestia then shifted her gaze back to couple a giving them a smile. “I also earnestly agree and I am very impressed by your judgements Peter. If you have Twilight full support, then I am willing to support you as well in your ways. Just like I always say, follow your hearts whenever you fell or know it is for a good cause.” Celestia said gently and showing her part of support for the pair.
"Indeed...." Now Chrysalis spoke off adding her line of support. "If you truly believe that it is for the good cause, just go for it and dont let anypony else to tell you otherwise, my friend."
“Sometimes, a critical situation requires a critical anti-measures. I guess.” Shining spoke off, sympathizing with her younger sisters and brothers-in-law decision.
“Indeed, Shining Amor.” Luna agreed with Royal Guards captains words. “Right now, the entire Equestria is endangered from the side of Grogar or possible even Elementals, Uatu has warned us and we must protect our home no matter what.” Moon princess then glanced to Peter and Twilight. “That’s why I am also giving you my full support to form that team, my friends.” Peter and Twilight glanced at each other happily.
“Hey, Pete….” Applejack trailed off, shifting her gaze to stallion. “Who exactly do you intent to bring into that superhero team of yours anyway? You have said, it would be composed of an gifted and special individuals.” Farm pony asked curiously, wondering which individuals Peter had exactly on mind.
“I am glad that you ask, Applejack.” Peter replied a bit smugly, like he would already have some ideas. “I have already picked seven top candidates, that have a perfect credentials and potential enough to face and fight Grogar.”
“Reallyy?” Pinkie squeaked excited as ever. “Who are they?” Pink mare asked and titling her head on side.
“Those candidates” Peter trailed off, chuckling playfully. “Some of them are even here in Thorne room by the way, are……Myself…..Twilight…..Spike…..Luna......Sunset Shimmer…..Black Cat….and….Wolverine.”
Peters response once again gained a couple of collective gazes, especially from those who were mentioned, especially Twilight, Spike and Luna. “That’s right, guys.” Peter replied and being oblivious to those who were straying and unable to held his joy at bay. “I mean exactly the same team that fought by my side and helped me to take down Norman Osborn back on Earth seven years ago. Is it not great?”
“Oh. That’s great. Bringing Black Cat into our team….YOU GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!” Twilight, at first seemingly happy as Peter mentioned Black Cat, though suddenly with a speed that could be literally compared to that of Quciksilver, the mare shifted pleased right into outraged as she burst out on top of her lungs like a volcano and earning collective gazes from the others, as some of them even jumped frightened.
Spike, unfortunately tottered himself, trying to hold his position on Peters seat, but it was for naught as he fell again. But luckily, this time reacting quickly, Rarity used her magic and catching Spike with her telekinesis before he could strike the ground.
Peter, on the other hoof nearly jumped from his seat frightened by his mare reaction. He watched her cautiously with his hooves raised defensively, as her glare resembling daggers literally pierced through him, Yet, Peter knew very well….It was all about bringing Felicia Hardy, alias Black Cat in.
“I have known it would surprise you, honey. Wow!” Peter chuckled nervously yet jerking out and throwing his hooves forward defensively as Twilight horn glowed by her trademark violet aura and in the moment, the pair disappeared in a flash of light.
The pair, though reappeared in a flash of light, outside the Throne Room in the Canterlot court yards at the gardens, near the fountain. Twilight, however intended to do that, so they could have some space and privacy in order to settle their own formal matters and that “little thing” about Felicia.
Peter furrowed his brow and rolling his eyes, hoping it would avert Twilights like hot knife gaze that is about to pierce through butter, though failing miserably. “Please. Try to understand, Twilight. I have had a good reason for this.” Stallion tried to make a reason with his wife.
“You better should have!” Twilight huffed. “What the heck were you thinking? Brining an infamous cat burglar into our team. Speaking of which, the one who has a way more than weird interest in sparkling items, which she could steal in order to satisfy her own pleasures by that and being immature, sneaky, seductive and worst of all… irritably flirtatious! Coquette!” The mares frustration was evident as well as a steadily raising tempter associated with it. Twilight, Princess of Friendship was engulfed by and envious to Felicia by jealousy.
“Come on, Twilight.” Peter, who manage to recollect his composure and well as some of his sense, yet still being uneasy with his wifes frustration spoke off, trying to bring some sense into her. “You know that Felicia has reformed six years ago and now workings under Princess Celestia as her secret agent and living in Baltiamare. She is a good kitty now.” Peter dared to enlighten the situation with one of his quirks, yet to his dismay, it didn’t seem to help much.
“Besides, she could be really helpful to us as a valuable ally against Grogar. She is resourceful, purposeful and smart. She had already proved that during our final battle with Norman Osborn. Right now we need each other.”
“She is still on and seductive towards you.” Twilight huffed back, not feeling helped or relieved in the slightest. “We don’t need that in our fight with Grogar.”
Right now, Peter wrapped his hooves around Twilights neck gently and pulling her into a warm embrace and despite his great strength, the stallion held his wife with an utmost care. “Look, honey. We have been married for over seven years right now. We are living a great life and raising two beautiful colts. And yet…Have you ever seen Felicia to interfere into our lives or messing between us? Besides, what can she possible do about our happy marriage? Use an Infinity Gauntlet to erase it?”
Listening Peters kind and sensible words, Twilight exhaled, finally able to relax a bit as well her fury and jealousy declined drastically and even managing to chuckle by Peters mention about Infinity Gauntlet. The mares cheeks blushed as she just wanted to enjoy her stallions embrace on the fullest.
Peter sighed a bit. “Felicia also had a difficult and rough life back in New York, struggling to survive. And right here, she got an another chance and starting a new, probably better life. I guess you could give her a chance, don’t you think?” Peter asked carefully yet gently.
The pair eventually parted and Twilight shared a glance with Peter. “I still don’t like it…” She trailed off still a bit sceptically. “But….I will just try. Because I trust you.” The mare managed a warm smile as she delivered an affectionate kiss on her husbands cheek.
“That is the spirit.” Peter nudged his wife playfully. “I am sure you could even be friends by the time.”
Twilight, however groaned uneasily.
Back in the Throne Room, everypony were still present and sitting around the table. Though, an intensity could be felt in the atmosphere. Twilights sudden outburst about mention of Black Cat was more than understandable, especially for those who were close to amethyst young alicorn, like Shining Armor. He was well aware of Peters common history with Black Cat and he understood very well his little sisters frustration whenever he mentioned her. Yet, deep down he hoped for Peters own sake not to go astray from his patch with Twilight. Otherwise, she would kill him. And she probably wouldn’t be the only one.
A five minutes had passed since Twilight and Peters disappearance and everypony slowly started worrying and if they shouldn’t send guard to find them. When suddenly, a flash of light erupted and Twilight along with Peter reappeared back in their seats, earning a couple of surprised and relieved gazes alike.
“Where in the buck have you two been.” Applejack addressed the duo concerned. “We have been started worrying.”
“Is…Everything okay?” Flutershy spoke off meekly, also concerned for her friends.
“Nothing or no personal matters we couldn’t handle.” Peter simply replied and sharing a glance with his wife who managed a warm smile. Everypony, though feeling still a bit uncertain about Twilight sudden outburst about Black Cat and yet seeing her calmed down with her nerves settled down, they all could relief and as Princess Celestia gave a pair a warm reassuring smile.
“Besides…” Twilight somewhat uneasily trailed off. “Black Cat…Felicia is on.”
“She is?” Pinkie asked curiously, but before she could say something else, Twilight shot her a small glare in order not to push it, yet she nod in agreement. Peter on the other hoof smiled and blinked at party pony to do so.
“Okie dokie.” Pinkie agreed indifferently and shrugging her shoulders, while Shining Armor respired in relief and chuckling under his breath.
“Besides…” Cadance, who still had an opened anti-magic box containing a copy of Crimson Gem of Cyttorak in front of her spoke off very hopefully, like she would finally managed to find out something important or positive about the gem. “I have a good news for you. Since you have been gone, I finally managed to do a complete magic analysis about the copy of Crimson Gem of Cyttorak.”
Peter and Twilight averted their surprised gazes right to the Princess of the Crystal Empire, with their brows widened, interested. “And….?” The both asked simultaneously and rolling their head on side.
Cadance denied the pair a serene smile and started explaining. “You see….Everything actually matches and confirms Uatus own analysis. This gem is indeed a mere duplicate of an original Crimson Gem of Cyttorak. And though not being exactly the same or having not the same properties or potential to match the original, I unfortunately was able to sense a mere signs of corruption that engulfs it. Which actually confirms your fears, Peter about its vast and destructive power.” The mare stated a little cautiously.
“However…” She went on. “The duplicates polarities are shifted and reversed, which actually restrains and cancel its corruptive potential. I am fascinated and cannot believe how Uatu had ever managed that. But then again, with his advanced Watchers technology, there is not telling what else he could do…..”Cadance let herself taken away by her fascination by the alien technology as she earned a collective gazes from the others and playful grins from Peter, Twilight and Spike.
“Oh, sorry.” Cadance chuckled sheepishly. “I guess, I have let myself to take myself away a bit.”
“Chm. Keep that doing and you will soon by just like your sister-in-law. A total bookworm --Ow!” Peter declared sarcastically, yet once again earning a good time smack over his cranium from Twilight, rubbing it painfully. Cadance on the other hoof managed to laugh a bit and not being upset in the slightest, while Shining groaned in annoyance.
“Anyway….” Cadance continued as she recollected her senses. “Though the duplicate could still give the ones who are holding it a super human powers, it is not so great and powerful as an original gem. But I guess it should be just enough. Well…at least for humans on Earth, of course. Yet, I still have no idea what it might do to other creatures, like dragons for an example.”
Pink alicorns choice of words however aroused an awe of both Peter and Twilight. “Dragons?” Twilight blurted out in disbelief.
“Just how do you meant that, Cadance?” Peter sharing his wifes awe blurted out though having a strange suspicious.
“It is about me.” Spike interjected, confessing his part on this. “I have been wondering, if that gem could actually make me adult again, just like seven years ago when I was transformed into a giant, stronger and more powerful version of myself. You know horns, long neck, fangs and claws, spikes, scales, wings, tail, breathing fire among other things. Just think about it. I could take Grogar down with one breath.” Baby dragon muttered excited as Twilights and Peters brow widened, yet Twilights somewhat twitched involuntarily.
“Spike!” The mare exclaimed frantically and slamming her hoof on the table. “You just cannot be serious about this! We still have no idea what that thing could do to you!”
“Indeed!” Rarity exclaimed as well, sharing Twilights concern. “You may have clearly forgotten the time when you turned into a giant rampaging dragon overwhelmed by greed, taking whatever you wanted and attacking Ponyville. Yet, on the other hoof….It wasn’t your fault that much, darling. You were out of yourself.” White unicorns voice softened, sympathizing with her little dragon friend and patting him gently on his green scales on his head.
“Yeah, I know.” Spike trailed off, sighing shamefully as the memories struck his mind as well as sending a pain into his heart. It was the time, when he had his first official birthday in Ponyville and gaining lots of gifts and presents from his friends, but unfortunately, it steadily started causing him to be extensively willing as greed started darkening his judgements and he wanted more and more. His greed eventually transformed him into a monstrous dragon, that turned and attacked his friends. Yet luckily, he was able revert back to normal thanks to Rarity and realizing that kindness and generosity are more valuable than anything in the world.
“That is already behind you, Spike.” Fluttershy soothed dragon with the most carrying voice she could muster. “Let it go.”
“But…” Spike, calmed and soothed by both Rarity and Fluttershy recollected his senses and spoke more lightened and positively. “Back on Earth, it was completely different. As that powerful magician or wizard….” Dragon mumbled, having trouble to remember some name.
“Doctor Strange?” Peter tried to give Spike a hint about Doctor Strange, or otherwise called as Sorcerer Supreme, the greatest magician in the world.
“Yeah! That guy.” Spike exclaimed, as Peter gave him a hint. “He was able to turn my, Peter and Twilight into aliens/humans and my into that adult version of myself.”
“Eghm….” Twilight interjected. “Spike. He actually created a shadow constructs of our bodies and tied our spirits to them and allowing us to exist on Earth. Though, our bodies weren’t shifted, but spirits instead. He only assured we would be humans.” Twilight explained somehow offhandedly to her dragon little brother like figure.
“Oh yeah. Right.” Spike muttered offhandedly by realization. “But anyway, back than on Earth, it was completely different, than the time I transformed into a monster by expressing greed. No that on was like…Still me, only in a different and much stronger body and able to fly.” Spike considered. “And by what Peter said about that Juggernaut and….Cyttorak demon along with that crimson gem, It was almost the same. Right?”
“In the way…Yes, Spike.” Princess Celestia surprisingly spoke off as baby dragon and other ponies shifter their gazes to sun goddess. “It is true that while Cain had touched the Crimson Gem of, the Cyttorak himself granted part of his essence, therefore Cain became a living incarnation or avatar of that power itself.” Celestias demeanour suddenly darkened. “The problem though is, that Cyttoraks powers were of corrupted origins, which arguably led Cain Marko/Juggernaut to a dark path.”
“But Princess Celestia.” Spike objected, yet halting in a process, realizing who he was talking to. He cleared his throat and spoke off with the most respect her could muster. “By the all respects to you, Your Highness, but Cadance has just said that the corruption of that gem was cancelled as Uatu had shifted polarities.” He then averted his gaze to Cadance. “Right?”
“Well…Yes, Spike.” Cadance replied, yet there was a slight sign of doubt or even uncertainty in her voice. “But as I had also said, I am not sure or could be said what it might to do with other creatures, like you as a dragon.”
“You mean…..” Spike muttered unwillingly, followed by his change in tone.
“I am sorry, Spike.” Twilight stated firmly. “But you are NOT using that gem! There is not telling what you could turn into or how it could affect you.” Despite her strict and strong voice, Twilight also couldn’t hide a concern for her little dragon friend, who had always been more than a both physical and mental support for her, but also like a little brother.
“But…but….” Spike blurted out, objecting quite frustrated.
“I second that.” Peter joined, sharing her wifes concern. “Don’t feel bad about this, little buddy, but what we really need the least, would be an Equestrian version of Godzilla that could literally put Fin Fang Foom into shame. Or worse….You could even never change back.”
Spikes eyes widened by Peters concern and his voice lacking any humour, as well as memories of his former self once again struck his mind. Baby dragon reflected as he turned into a giant rampaging dragon, overwhelmed by greed and even turning against his friends, especially threatening a pony that he felt a special affection, which could be nothing short from a “having a crush”: Rarity.
Once again, dragons heart ached painfully as well as a horrible realization struck him. He wanted to help his friends on their friendship mission, being much a hero like Peter was and protecting Equestria, but he also hadn’t wanted to turn into a “monster” again. And the story that Peter told about Cain Marko, becoming an Unstoppable Juggernaut by the Crimson Gem of Cyttorak and abusing his power to cause destruction and spreading chaos, even that didn’t add on his confidence of stop ignoring the possible outcomes. He just couldn’t risk the safety of his friends, just because he wanted to prove himself.
“You know…” Spike muttered nervously and chuckling sheepishly. “Maybe on second though…I am going to think this through yet.”
“Finally some sensible words from you, dude.” Rainbow Dash stated a little sarcastically, yet being happy for Spikes own decision about not using the copy of Crimson Gem of Cyttorak, as well as Twilight, Peter and Rarity were.
“Besides…” Peter spoke off, returning into his light-hearted tone. “That actually doesn’t matter in the slightest, when we will take you into the ground by the same.”
“Really?!” Spike blurted out hopefully, his eyes virtually gleaming with enthusiasm.
“Peter! Not you too.” Twilight exhaled exasperated and throwing a glare to her stallion, who also started encouraging Spike to join them.
“Peter!” Now Rarity rather exclaimed too, both exasperated and upset. “How dare you force little Spiked Wikey to fight such monstrosity as Grogar?”
“Spike, are you sure you want to do this? It will be dangerous. Grogar is malevolent, full of hatred and extremely powerful. He is just not any ordinary villain we had ever faced before.” Twilight however stood into Spikes way, though a deep concern as well as uncertainty was evident in both her voice and expression.
Despite it actually looked like she was discouraging Spike from going with Avengers, the librarian was also worrying for her best friends and little brother figures safety, still wondering if it was a good idea to bring him along at the first place.
“Rarity…Twilight.” Spike spoke off with a firm and determined tone, catching a surprising attention of a white unicorn. “Peter is not forcing me. He even haven’t had to. I have always wanted to help the others and being more of a hero like Peter is, on the first place. And right now, with Grogar threatening the Equestria, Peter and Twilight need more help and support they can get about that…Avengers team they can get. And by this, I am giving them my part of support, to be one of them.” Spike declared with the most determined tone he could muster, causing both Twilight and Rarity to gasp in awe, while Peter only grinned.“And besides….” Spike went on. “Someone once told me, that it doesn’t matter how big or strong anypony is, but how brave and determined they are.”
Spikes words, though sounding frustrated and rush as well as somehow with an utter need to prove himself something, yet being filled with so much determination, courage and willingness, Twilight found herself just staring slack jawed by listening Spikes testimony. Despite one part of the mare was deeply impressed by small dragons willingness and courage, the second concerned part however didn’t quite or rather hesitating to put him into danger.
Maybe it was a paranoia or rather a very unpleasant experience from the past, as during their final battle Norman Osborn destroyed Spikes spiritual vessel, yet his spirit managed to preserve and safely being teleported back into Equestria. When only thinking about what might have happed to Spike, Twilight felt a weight and sharp like knife stabbing pain within her chest and don’t even want to imagine a life without him.
Nevertheless, despite his small stature and rather fragile posture, Spike had a heart as big as sky and proving his courage and willingness more than several times back in the past, by protecting Rarity from Diamond Dogs, saving and taking care of baby Phoenix from Teenage Dragon gang, saving the Crystal Empire from the wraith of King Sombra as well as facing such a dangerous and powerful creatures back on Earth like Hulk, Venom and Green Goblin.
And Twilight knew that if Spike was willing to help and fight by his fellow Avengers side, she just couldn’t stand in his way or having a law to discourage him from it. It was his own volunteering choice.
“But Spikey…” Rarity attempted to object, but in the instance, Chrysalis interrupted her.
“Just leave him, Rarity.” Chrysalis, the Changeling queen stated in a calm reassuring manner. “He is maybe little, young and still having a long way to go. But his heart is big as a mountain and his intentions pure. If he wants to do a right thing, then let him to do so. We shouldn’t hinder but on the contrary support him on it.” Chrysalis explained in motivation as she shared a glance with Celestia, as a snow white alicorn only smiled widely in response.
Rarity opened he mouth slightly, ready to make another objection, but though realizing Chrysalis motivation as well as little dragons immense determination and which she also felt a such an affection to, only sighed in a beaten way, yet she managed a warm smile to Spike and nodding her head, giving her part of support.
“Alright than, Spike. Just, please stay close.” Twilight sighed in defeated like manner, still a little hesitantly, yet deep down being very proud of and respecting her little scaly friends decision and managing a warm smile nonetheless. Spike only grinned triumphantly, yet winking at his big sister like figure reassuringly and extending his arm with his thumb up.
“Yeah!” Spike exclaimed excited as he once again climbed into Peters seat, as dragon and stallion bumped their fist and hoof and exchanging a triumphant smirk. So far, Spike and Black Cat were in.
“Um, Luna….” Peter spoke off grinning, addressing a moon goddess sitting across the table like he would like to offer her something. But before he could obviously offer her a membership in their team, the princess however scoffed playfully and cutting stallions speech with her hoof raised.
“Don’t force yourself Peter. If you want to have me in the team, then the answer is more than clear….You can count me in.” Luna scoffed a little bit yet speaking in a very honest manner, quite for Peters awe. “If you intent to face and fight Grogar in order to protect Equestria, than it would be more than pleasure and honour for me to once again fight by your side like against Osborn seven years ago, my friend. Together.” Moon Princess declared determined, ready to give hoof to her friends in an upcoming fight.
Princess though, shared a brief glance with Celestia, yet her older sister only smiled, nodding her head in response and placing her hoof over Lunas, encouraging her to do so. Luna could only smile back, reflecting her sisters words: “If you intent to do a right think, than pursue a go for it. Follow your heart.”
With now Luna in, Twilight who couldn’t be happier, shifter her gaze to her former mentor. “Princess Celestia? What about Sunset Shimmer? How is she doing? Is she still studying at School for Gifted Unicorns?” Young alicorn asked with an utmost curiosity.
It had been years, since she lastly saw Celestias former student who once stole Twilight Crown and joined forces with Norman Osborn in order to destroy Twilight, to prove she was better and superior to her. Yet, Sunset eventually reformed herself as she helped Peter, Twilight and Luna in their final confrontation against Osborn, returning back to Equestria and Twilight along with Princess Celestia helped her to return to her studies back into School for Gifted Unicorns, forging a bond of mutual respect and event friendship between two mares.
“Sunset Shimmer is doing just fine, Twilight.” Celestia replied, smiling warmly. “And what I can say and what I learned from the reports from her five years studies at School, she has been working hard on herself, improving her magical potential and even scoring nearly as high as once you, when you were still studying under my watch, my the most faithful student.” Sun princess paused for a while, as her smile widened hopefully.
“That’s great, Princess Celestia.” Twilight exhaled happily. “We could really use Sunset and I earnestly believe and having a faith that she would a valuable member of your team as well as ally in our fight against Gorgar.”
“Very well than. I shall send guards to fetch Sunset, as well as informing Ms. Hardy to meet us tomorrow. I know that they would eventually agree to join the team.” Celestia stated, sharing an understanding with her former student.
“Alright!” Peter exclaimed excited. “Six candidates goes….one more to go.”
“Mmm…Peter.” Shining Amor, thinking deeply and considering addressed young stallion. “About that seventh member….Wolve…Wolv….” Royal Guard Captain was muttering incoherently, unable to repeat and having trouble remembering the candidates name.
“I believe, the word you are seeking Shinning, is….Wolverine. But can also be called simply…Logan” Peter corrected an older unicorn about the name.
The entire room felt silent, but no tension was felt in the atmosphere. In other hand, a sheer curiosity filled the ponies sitting around the table, though none of them had a slightest idea, who exactly was Peter talking about. Yet, they were interested to know more about that Wolverine/Logan guy.
“Logan?” Fluttershy meekly spoke, testing out the name on her tongue. “That’s a very nice name.”
“Big deal.” Rainbow huffed, seemingly uninterested and waving her hoof dismissively. “To tell the truth, I certainly like his another name.…Wolverine much better. It sound cool…and wicked.” Rainbow speeding pegasus grinned enthusiastic.
“Interesting. Who exactly is that…Logan, darling?” Rarity shifted her gaze to Peter with a wide interest.
“He is our friend from Earth, Rarity.” Twilight explained with a smile on her face “He had even stood by our side and helped us in our final confrontation against Norman Osborn to the end.”
Everypony were listening Twilights narration about Logan with an utmost interest, as Shinning Armor trailed off. “That is…really noble from him for a quite a stranger….I guess….But than anyway….We are actually talking about another alien from another dimension, like Peter?” The stallion tried to settle the things up.
“Actually, Shinning…” Peter interjected in an attempt to lay some light on the situation. “He is not actually a human…or alien as you rather call it. He is a mutant."
“A…Mutant?” Chrysalis asked with an interest. “What kind of creature is that?”
Peter cleared his throat before starting to explain. “You see…There are millions of mutants back on Earth. They are actually humans, born with a special powers due to random irregularities in their genetic codes.” Peter explained only to gain a couple of confused gazes on everyponys faces as stallion chuckled sheepishly.
“Equestrian, partner. Equestrian.” Applejack exhaled exasperated, obviously having not a clue what Peter had just said, by which perhaps only Twilight could understand in an exception. Yet the farm pony manage a grin.
“Well, as I have said…” Peter continued, though this time trying to be more specific. “Logan, Wolverine which is his superhero codename is a member of a mutant superhero team that saves the world and fighting evil just like the Avengers or Fantastic Four, calling themselves the X-Men, each individual possessing his or hers very unique abilites.”
“Well....What about that Logan guy, Peter. What are exactly his special abilities anyway? I guess it is something cool.” Rainbow nearly squeaked in excitement.
"Well Rainbow...." Peter started somewhat sheepishly, chooisng his words of choice carefully. "About Logans/Wolverines special powers…sometimes, something might be considered so cool, if it better was NOT cool at all. And in Logans case…Pretty freaky. Imagine quite a shor Canadian with an anger issues, having an extreme and unhygienic puberty like hairstyle, smoking a cheap cigar, having three retractable metal claws popping from his hands that can slice through anything, possessing the greatest nose on earth able to smell your sent a mile away, having a skeleton coated by virtually indestructible alloy and above all, the ability to instantaneously heal from virtually any injury via super regeneration.”
“By the way…He is the best there is at what he does.” Peter suddenly spoke of in an unusually gruff and raspy like tone that could literally send chills into others spines. “Though…” Peters voice reverted back into its normal light-hearted self yet sounding a bit uneasy. “What he does, isn’t very nice.”
Peters blunt and somewhat odd description of Logan as well as sudden tone change earned him a series of bewildered and rather confused gazes as well as mixed reactions among the ponies, well with exceptions of Twilight, Spike and Luna, who were well familiar as well as already knowing Logan themselves during their staying on Earth.
“Um, Peter?” Fluttershy asked with her meek tone, if not being associated with fear. “What does that even mean?”
“You better don’t want to know, Fluttershy.” Peter replied offhandedly, urging Fluttershy not to push the subject.
Before a quite awkward situation could go even further, Twilight decided to speak for her husband. “It is true though. Yes, Logan showed himself to be a little bit quick-tempered quite easily, acting touch and gruff, as well as….growling at times. Like...An animal.” Young princess finished in a somewhat uncertain tone. “But…” Twilight continued and reverting into her usual light-hearted tone. “During our stay in Doctor Stranges place, Sanctrum Sanctorum, Logan also showed to have a soft side as well. From what I saw, he was actually a nice person and being very kind to me and Spike as well.”
“Almost like a cool uncle.” Spike replenished.
“I also think he is trustworthy.” Luna interjected, sharing and standing for both Twilights and Spikes confession about Logan. “When Norman Osborn brainwashed other superheroes, including that Nick Fury and Captain America guy along with other so called S.H.I.E.L.D. agents and sending them after Strange, who was the only one who could bring us back to Equestria as well as keeping Peters existence steady on Earth, Logan willing offered himself to stop them and eventually prevailing in his task.”
Peter than cleared his throat and spoke off with motivation. “I also believe that Logan could be a more than a big deal of help, a formidable ally as well as force to be recon with in our fight against Grogar.”
The stallion then chuckled sheepishly. “Though…I am also not denying, that my intentions also had been to see that old loose cannon once again, to bring him into our world vie Dimensional Dilation Accelerator as well as being transformed into a pony by magical energies of Equestria, just like me of Felicia. I am also sure you all are gonna love Logan guys and that he would also like Equestria for a change.”
Peter then turned his attention to Princess Celestia. “Well…eghm….If it is okay with you, Your Highness.” Young stallion addressed sun goddess with an utmost respect and humility and bowing his head in respect.
Princess Celestia, considering stallions words, however managed a serene smile. “You are fine, Peter. I earnestly understand and respect your own decision and good intentions. About forming the Avengers team to fight Grogar in order to save Equestria, as well as your desire to see an old friend again. I frankly have also heard about that Logan as well from Sunset herself. She said that he is a tough man, yet a gentle spirit. And from what I have heard, he even gave sunset some advice of wisdom.” Princess Celestias words were unusually gentle, polite, full of sympathy and understanding.
“So….” Peter aske hopefully, not averting his gaze from sun goddess. “Does this mean….?”
“Yes, Peter.” Celestias smiles widened and winking at Peter in agreement. “You are free to bring Logan into Equestria, as long as you consider it as a right thing.”
“Thank you, Princess Celestia.” Peter replied excited, yet maintain his respectful and humble stance and nodding in respect. “You will not regret it.”
Princess Celestia than stood from her seat, placing her hooves on the table as she towered over others around the table, like she was about to say something very important and clearing her throat. “I believe, that you all understand the situation, as well as ongoing recent events. Grogar, an evil necromancer and tyrant is out there somewhere and will not stop to anything to proceed with his own dark twisted plans to threaten and take over Equestria, our home. Especially with Elementals, Lavan, Squirk and Arabus about to awaken, as well as that mysterious dark entity dwelling in Shadow World, there is lots in stake. ”
“But yet….Thanks to Uatu the Watchers early warning about Elementals, advices how to deal with them as well as with Dimensional Dilation Accelerator and Crimson Gem of Cyttorak he gave us, we all now know what we are up against and come up with a suitable strategy how to deal with our enemies. Which makes very noble, even without our asking for help at the first place.”
“And I also believe and having a faith in Peter and his Avengers idea. Which though seeming a little unorthodox even for Equestrian standards. Yet, with Peters pure and good intentions, forming this a very special team composed from unique and gifted individuals, might be our trump card and our greatest hope against Grogar we have.”
“I personally am for it and giving my full support to Peter, Twilight, Luna, Spike, Sunset, Ms Hardy and Logan to form that team in order to fight and stop Grogar. If anypony has some objections, you better speak now, or being silent forever.”
Princess Celestias words were full of motivation, conviction, sympathy as well as charisma, that nopony sitting around the sun princess couldn’t manage to object in the slightest as they all smiled widely and a warm atmosphere filled the Throne Room. Peter and Twilight both shared a satisfied glance, smiling widely and Twilight planted a soft affectionate kiss on her stallions cheek.
Rarity though cleared her throat. “Since there is lots of about this whole superhero stuff, I would be more than honoured and eager to create a special sets of costumes for each individual that if fitting, just like I had done for Peter and his Spider-Mane costume himself.” Fashion designer unicorn declared determined and with a great passion in her voice.
“Sounds good to me.” Peter replied without any hint of objection in his voice, smiling widely as the others shared his example.
“Very well then. That’s a given.” Princess Celestia closed her eyes, speaking decisively yet wither her serene and gentle demeanour intact. “Peter…Twilight….Luna….And you too Spike..…Initiate the project Harmony Avengers.” Celestia declared solemnly.
“That’s great.” Peter spoke off grinning happily, yet like he would be eager to something for some time. “Because it is almost lunch time. And…..I really need to pee.” Stallion said bluntly, one again earning a serious of bewildered gazes of mixed reactions, as somepony rolled their eyes exasperated, some of them on the other hoof could do nothing but chuckle or even laugh by Peters poor choice of words as well as mentioning the entire meeting taking nearly half of day.
While Spike laughed and Twilight and Luna on the other hoof groaning exasperated, Princess Celestia couldn’t help but chuckle. Though, despite anypony could see it or realize, princess of the sun could feel as strange pulling feelings in her chest as well as focusing on thoughts that echoed throughout her mind, though managing a warm smile.
“Star Swirl…..I really hope you had been right all along….that Peter, Twilight, Luna, Spike, Sunset, Felicia and Logan.....The Avengers are…...Saviours and the Questrias Greatest Heroes.”
To be continued….