//------------------------------// // Searching for answers // Story: Friendship Amongst The Stars // by Thunder Brony //------------------------------// Back on the pony home world at the Pontian base Hydoria was talking to the search teams “Hydoria to search team have you located Troezen?” A voice said “negative my lord there is only an impact site and a nearby cottage.” Hydoria said “search the cottage he may have sought refuge.” Kalios said “my liege this forest is full of monsters and we must consider the possibility that Troezen is lost.” A voice came over his communicator said “we are inside the cottage my lord and there is no sign of Troezen just some indigenous life forms.” Hydoria said “return to base the sun is beginning to set and the monsters will be coming out soon.” The voice replied “are you sure about that my liege? Troezen is our finest asset.” Hydoria replied with a slightly sarcastic overtone “oh sure stay there but if you end up on the menu that’s you problem.” Then taking on an aggressive tone “now return to base if you are not back here in the next five glorbons you will be charged with insubordination. The voice replied “if I refuse?” After a pause Hydoria said “then you will be branded a traitor and thrown into a Blatomar pit or assigned to genetic resequencing.” The voice paused then said “I’m on my way my lord.” Hydoria said “oh and Solmar I want to speak with you upon your return.” After turning off the communication device he turned back to Kalios and said “we cannot afford to be defenseless we have to work under the presumption that the Malctidragon is lost.” Kalios asked “what if Troezen returns?” Hydoria said “we will deal with that when or if he returns in the meantime we have to create new one, a better one, a creature that will not question its place or creators.” Kalios said “as you wish my lord I will speak to Holmar.” Hydoria said “no I will speak to him I have a few stipulations I want to include.” Kalios said “as you wish my lord.” Hydoria pushed a button on his communication device “Hydoria to Holmar.” Moments later a voice replied Holmar here.” Hydoria said “come to my location I have a few things I wish to discuss with you.” Holmar said “I’m on my way.” Moments later Holmar came to Hydoria’s location and bowed “you wanted to see me my lord?” Hydoria said “I require a new Malctidragon one that is totally obedient and will not question its place or its creators.” Holmar said “as you wish my liege the creature will be ready in 2 solar cycles.” Soon after a shuttle came into view and Solmar stepped out of the shuttle and knelt before Hydoria “you wanted to see me my liege?” Hydoria said “rise.” Solmar rose up and Hydoria reached out and grabbed him by the neck and lifted him off the ground and growled menacingly “question my orders again and a Blatomar will feast on your bones. Do I make myself clear?” Solmar choked out “y-y-es my lo-rd.” Hydoria retracted his hand and thrust it forwards throwing his captive forward causing him to stumble and fall on his rear. Looking down with with a scowl he said with a growlish edge “now get out of my sight.” Solmar scrambled to his feet and ran away as fast as he could. Two days later Hydoria, Kalios and Chrysalis were gathered in a clearing. Chrysalis asked “Hydoria why did you summon me here? I was enjoying one of your viewing screens.” Hydoria said with a wicked smile “it’s a surprise one I think you will find interesting.” Chrysalis arched an eyebrow and was about to say something when a flapping sound was heard as Hydoria pointed to the east. Chrysalis turned her head and saw something coming towards their location. Whatever it was it was large as the form came closer flapping wings could be seen and there appeared to be a figure on its back. As it came even closer more details could be seen soon it came into view it looked like Troezen and Holmar was riding on its back. The creature landed nearby with a small thud kicking up a cloud of dust. It lowered its head as Holmar slid off the creatures back as it stood up on its hind legs and looked down at the group. It looked similar to Troezen but the scale and spine colors were reversed. Chrysalis asked “Troezen is that you?” The creature shook its head “no, I am Vidar Troezen was my predecessor.” Holmar patted Vidar’s side and said “his name means warrior, this is a new better Malctidragon as per Hydoria’s instructions.” Hydoria nodded “this creature is totally loyal and will obey us without question” turning to Holmar he said “you have done well.” Holmar bowed in reverence. Kalios said “my lord we should put our creation to good use.” Hydoria said “indeed.” Just then a ship appeared over their heads and landed as the door opened and a being stepped out. Hydoria smiled and said “greeting’s Metzel.” Metzel bowed and said “I bring a message my liege from Xorbax via DNA encoding.” Hydoria said “follow me.” The two went to a lab and Hydoria took a blood sample and extracted the message from Xorbax it came on the screen. It read greetings Hydoria I escaped from prison with the assistance of Metzel and one another. We are working to undermine the newest leader of the Pontian Empire the leader believes you are dead. We are using this to our advantage I will contact you when circumstances permit Xorbax. Hydoria said “this is good news indeed” turning to Metzel he said “I have a task for you.” Metzel bowed his head and said “I am honored to serve.” Hydoria said “I want you to survey this planet I want to know what lies beyond the borders of this region so far all we have is the Changeling Empire and the United Dragon Alliance.” Metzel bowed his head again “at once my liege.” Chrysalis had an idea then grinned wickedly and said “I have an idea on how to bring Ponyville under our control.” She lowered her head as her horn glowed and rings of green magic pulsed across the ground moments later a drone came to them she stared at the drone for a few moments it nodded it head and took to the air. At the same time in Ponyville ponies were going about their daily activities when the changeling drone landed on the outskirts of town. Then in a puff of green magic turned into a pegasus mare with a white coat black mane and tail and xylophone cutie mark. After entering town the changeling looked around it soon saw a dark purple unicorn with a blue main and tail and a pony shouting cutie mark. The changeling approached the unicorn. Even though the unicorn looked like the other ponies the changeling used its eyesight to see beyond what a pony could allowing it to see through the magic they used to disguise themselves. The pegasus concentrated focusing on the unicorn the pony perked up and turned around they stared at each other the unicorn nodded. The 2 changelings went behind a building changed to their root forms using their combined magic they molded several sticks of wood into several small explosive sticks. Then made a stone into a timer the 2 drones looked at each other and nodded. One of them took the form of the Ponyville mayor the other took the form of an Earth pony. The 2 doppelgangers went into a building and looked around. The shop was relatively empty only a few ponies were browsing around. As the Mayor distracted the pony behind the counter the Earth pony placed the device on the main support beam and left the building. A pony employee saw the Mayor imposter and said “oh hi Mayor how can I help you?” The Mayor imposter said nothing just fixing him with a cold stare causing him to quickly rear back as the Mayor said only one word “boom” then left the building. Confused the employee resumed his duties when noticed something out of place it was a box laying on the floor. Thinking it was an out of place item he approached the box when he heard a beeping sound. Curious he opened the box and saw a clock with numbers on it counting down 7, 6, 5 his eyes grew wide and shouted “EVERY PONY FLEE THE BUILDING!” The few ponies inside ran out of the building as an explosion erupted from the building in a huge concussive blast sending wood and glass fragments in every direction. Injuring any bystanders that were unlucky to be in the general vicinity a cracking sound was heard. Which was soon followed by a crashing sound as the rest of the building collapsed sending up a huge dust cloud. In the chaos the 2 doppelgangers fled behind a nearby building and switched to other forms as cloud dissipated all that remained of the building was a pile of rubble. As medical carriages came to take the injured to the Ponyville hospital he 2 imposters looked at each other and nodded one shifted to a royal guard the other to a pegasus. They went in opposite directions and soon came around to the general area. The guard imposter trotted up to the chaos and asked “what happened here?” The pegasus imposter said “I saw Mayor Mare running out of the building shouting something about blowing those traitors to Tartarus.” The guard imposter faining interest said “what traitors?” The pegasus said “I don’t know that’s all I heard.” The guard imposter said “I will report this to the princess at once” and took off towards Canterlot as the pegasus flew away. Several hours later at the mayor’s home Ivory Scroll was relaxing when suddenly a knock came on the door she opened the door. Outside were 3 royal guards 2 pegasi and a unicorn sitting in the chariot one of them said “Ivory Scroll by the order of princess Celestia you are ordered to come with us.” Ivory looked around in confusion “what’s going on?” The guard said “you are under arrest we are here to take you into custody” Ivory said “wait what?” The guard said “we have orders to take you to Canterlot now are you going to come along willingly or do we have to use magic?” Ivory said “I don’t have a choice do I.” The guard said “no.” Ivory sighed “very well.” As she boarded the royal chariot murmurs could be heard in the crowd gathered around as the chariot departed for Canterlot. Once they arrived in Canterlot Ivory was placed in a dungeon several hours passed and a guard came and lead her to the courtyard. She was placed on the same platform Cadence stood trial on. Celestia stepped forward spread her wings and said “Ivory Scroll Mayor of Ponyville you stand accused of vandalism, destruction of property, inciting anarchy, disruption of a business how do you plead? Ivory said “not guilty your majesty.” Celestia said “you have entered a plea of not guilty however, we have evidence to your crime there are witnesses to the contrary. The owner of Time Keepers Emporium that spoke with you and saw you leaving the scene as well as photos.” she levitated the photos onto a projector for all to see. Ivory was stunned then said “I have been home all day somepony was impersonating me.” Celestia said “there is no evidence to support your claim” she paused then continued “based on the evidence presented as the sovereign ruler of Equestria I have no choice but to strip you of your Mayoral status and confine you to the dungeon. Citizens of Ponyville until a new mayor can be elected Ivory’s assistant Cherry Dove will fill the role of Mayor.” After the decree was proclaimed several guards came and took the former Mayor back to the Canterlot dungeon as a single pegasus in the crowd took to the air. A short time later the pegasus retuned to the Pontian base landed in front to Chrysalis reverted to its root form and stared at her. She went to Hydoria with the drone following and said “good news Ponyville’s Mayor is in the dungeon” Hydoria said “good now we need a replacement one who adheres to our ideals and principles.” Chrysalis grinned then turned to the drone she stared for several moments the drone nodded shifted to the form of a pegasus and took to the air bound once more for Ponyville. Hydoria turned to Kalios and said “time to implement phase 2 go with Vidar to the Yack Range in the north our Intel says the Yacks are allies with the ponies. Also their lands are rich in Uranium-238 ore and by extension its sub element polonium-210.” Kalios asked “how much do we have?” Hydoria said “about 5,000 jaxphars we have enough to last 4 solar cycles after that our fleet will be permanently grounded.” Kalios said “understood do not worry my lord I will offer their leader technology in exchange access to mine the uranium-238 ore.” Vidar nodded “what if they refuse?” Hydoria smiled “oh they will” his smile turned to a wicked grin pointing to Kalios “be sure to tell them about a monster that you have been tracking across the planet.” Turning to Vidar he said “that is where you come in you will cause chaos” he thought for a second “or better yet do it just for kicks and giggles.” Vidar bowed his head “as you wish my liege.” Turning to Kalios “you will offer to rid them of the problem use a teleportation device, to the uniformed observer it will look like whoever is hit by it appears to be sucked into another dimension. Vidar said “appears?” Hydoria said “yes it’s an illusion the target is in fact transported to a preset destination once the” he paused “menace is gone. Offer our protection and some technology in exchange for their ore be sure to include the possibility of the creature or one like it returning.” Kalios nodded and turned to Vidar and said “ready?” Vidar nodded as they boarded a shuttle and departed for the frozen north passing over the Crystal Empire they saw changeling drones milling about. Absorbing love where ever they found it Kalios smiled and thought wow Chrysalis has been busy. Soon they came to the city of Yackyackastan and landed on the outskirts Kalios pressed a button on the console 2 communication devices rose up. He took them and handed one to Vidar and placed the other on his belt. He said “this device is on an open frequency so you will be able to hear me talking to the yacks I will be telling them about a strange flying creature.” He smiled “that is where you come in, when you hear that fly over the city and do what you do best.” Vidar nodded “understood.” Kalios exited the shuttle and traveled to the entrance to Yackyackastan as he approached the entrance to the city he saw 2 yacks standing guard. As he approached one of the guard yacks kicked a front leg and 2 spears on his sides went from vertical to horizontal stood at attention and said “halt state business.” Kalios said “greetings oh mighty yacks I’m here to speak to your leader it’s important.” The guard yack said “important? What important?” Kalios said “I’ve been tracking a fire breathing beast that came from the United Dragon Alliance I spotted it over Sylvertine and I think it’s headed this way.” Hearing that Vidar knew that was his cue and took to the air. Outside the gate the yacks and Kalios were talking when suddenly a flapping sound could be heard they saw a figure approaching. As it flew overhead it made a whoosh sound creating a wind wake causing the yacks fur to fly off their faces for a moment. The guards looked at each other and then at Kalios one of them said “me take you to leader Prince Rutherford.” As they traveled into the city a roar was head in the distance they looked in the direction of the sound suddenly a fireball streaked across the sky. They watched as it crashed into a building the building exploded fire and fragments. The beast then flew across the sky and sent a stream of fire into another building citizens ran in panic as the building burned. Kalios and the yack guard went to the palace and met Prince Rutherford who was talking to a yack Kalios thought based on his garb he was Capitan of the guard. The guard said “your majesty visitor bring news about monster.” The Prince looked at Kalios and said “what going on why is monster in my city?” Kalios was about to reply when they heard a roar turned and looked out the window they saw the creature as it landed on the capital building spread it wings roared. Raising its head it spewed a stream of fire into the air. Rutherford looked at Kalios and asked “wht monster doing in city?” Kalios said “I’ve been tracking that beast across your planet. Rutherford turned to the Capitan of the guard said “dispatch troops deal with monster” the yack saluted and left the room. Soon after the Capitan of the guard left he and his troops began pulling carts with weapons on them into the center of town and aimed their weapons at the intruder. Vidar just stared out them with an evil scowl as the soldiers fired arrows at him he spewed a stream of flames at the arrows they burst into flames and fell to ashes. He then took to the air went high up then came down at high speed then pulled up passing over the crowd. The sub sonic wind wake caused a wind gust scattering soldiers and equipment. In the palace Rutherford said “monster ruin city” turning to Kalios “how I know you not send?” Kalios said “as I said earlier I’ve been tracking that creature across this planet I have technology that can get rid of it but I don’t work for free.” Rutherford said “what you want?” Kalios smiled “your land is rich with uranium-238 and I wish to negotiate a trade agreement for the ore in exchange for disposal of the creature.” Rutherford thought for a moment then said “what if creature return?” Kalios said “I can offer technology to ensure the creature will not return.” Rutherford nodded then said “very well we sign treaty for ore and technology after you get rid of monster.” Kalios nodded then walked outside as the creature flew overhead it looked down at Kalios he nodded Vidar nodded looked forward then landed on another building. Kalios pulled out a hand held device. It had a hand grip with a cylindrical center and long smaller tube protruding from the cylinder. He pointed the device at the creature the end glowed orange for a moment then a beam emitted from the device. The beam struck the creature it glowed brightly with an orange glow as a black sphere grew outwards around the creature. It was sucked into the sphere then it collapsed in on itself then in a flash of white light and a crack of thunder and the creature was gone. Turning to Rutherford Kalios said “the creature will trouble you no more.” Rutherford said “yacks glad now we honor agreement ore yours.” Kalios smiled as the treaty was signed a single yack who witnessed the disappearance of the creature thought something did not seem right. He decided to go south to Ponyville and meet with princess Twilight. At the same time in Ponyville the changeling drone disguised as a pegasus landed near the town hide behind a building then switched to its root form. Its horn lite up with a green glow as it took the form of the Ponyville mailmare. It then conjured some mailbags then went to the Mayor’s office and met with Crystal Star. Crystal said “hi Derpy.” The Derpy imposter smiled passed a letter and flew away. Crystal thought that’s strange she didn’t stay to talk brushing it off opened the letter and it read Dear Crystal Star, you have been selected to participate in an all expense paid trip to Esko-Balto and the feline bay arrangements have been made to fill your position. The trip begins in 2 days a dirigible will be waiting for you in Appleoosa Sincerely, Princess Celestia. Included in the envelope was a train ticket to Appleoosa. As the mailmare doppelganger exited the building they ducked behind a building and shifted to another pegasus and flew towards Canterlot once there shifted to the form of a royal guard. After entering the palace the imposter soon found Celestia sitting in her royal chambers she was staring out the window. The drone quickly changed to the form of a royal unicorn mare servant her horn glowed as she stared at Celestia from behind using her magic to influence the device behind her ear. Celestia s snapped from her thoughts looked up and summoned a guard. A guard came in and said “you summoned me your highness?” Celestia nodded as she wrote something on a scroll “I want you to send this to Airflare Express in Appleoosa I have a special pony who will be taking a trip. Tell them to credit all expenses to the royal account.” The guard said “at once your majesty.” As the guard left the servant pony went to a balcony looked around saw no pony and shifted to a pegasus and left to inform Chrysalis. At the same time on the outskirts of Ponyville in Twilights castle Synora was in a room watching the events in Yackyackastan as she opened her eyes and sighed. Just them a knock came on the door she stood up and walked over to the door and opened it. On the other side stood a yellow pony with a pink mane and tail she smiled “oh hi uhh Flutershy right?” Fluttershy nodded “I was walking around the castle when I felt something” she paused and shrunk back slightly “oh, I’m not interrupting anything am I?” Synora shook her head “no I was meditating and saw a few interesting things, you said you felt something what was it?” Fluttershy said “it’s hard to describe its similar to what I feel when I communicate with animals” her head perked up “you said you saw something?” Synora said “we need to gather the others together I’ll tell you then.” Fluttershy nodded and went to gather the others. A short time later Fluttershy and the others were gathered in the throne room as Synora told them about what she saw in Yackyackastan. Twilight asked “this makes no sense what would they want with that ore?” Zackmar said “they’re ships are powered a derivative of uranium-238 polonium-210 it seems the Yack lands are rich with uranium-238 ore.” Rarity said “that explains the yacks but what why was Mayor Ivory Scroll removed? Zackmar said “so they could put a changeling in charge of the town and use it to spy on us and maybe sow seeds of discourse” he paused “they’re an it right?” Twilight nodded “yes as far as we know they’re androgynous.” Cadence said “not only spying but they could feed on the love here.” Dragnor looked around then asked “feed on love?” Twilight said “yes they are psychophageic.” Kendar said “psycho what?” Twilight said “they feed off of psychological energies while they can feed off of any emotional energy but love is the strongest and most potent.” Zackmar said “that explains why they took over the Crystal Empire.” The ponies all nodded in understanding then Applejack asked “what about the places beyond Equestria?” Zackmar said “once they secure Equestria they will move to other locations like the United Dragon Alliance if this keeps up then they will seize the entire planet.” Dragnor stared forwards lost in thought Rarity noticed his far off look and asked “Dragnor are you alright?” Dragnor snapped out of his daze “I’m fine I felt something about that name sounded familiar.” Twilight asked “do you know why?” Dragnor said “I’m not sure it was mostly an emotional feeling but I do remember something about the dragon empire and their leader” he smiled “he was nice.” Fluttershy smiled “is your memory coming back?” Dragnor nodded “I believe it is but slowly.” Fluttershy smiled and placed a hoof on his claw and said “it will come back eventually until then we will be here for you.” Dragnor smiled “I know and I will do my best to help you as best I can when needed.” Fluttershy smiled softly and said “you will always be welcome here.” The other 8 ponies, dragon, and 3 extraterrestrials nodded in unison Dragnor smiled softly. Zackmar said “it is possible they already have an alliance with the U.D.A they all looked at Dragnor. Dragnor looked around then asked “do you think I came from the U.D.A?” Zackmar said “it is possible.” Dragnor thought for a moment and said “if that is true maybe I should visit there.” Twilight’s horn glowed and a map appeared it was not a complete map of the planet only the known locations Equestria, Griffonstone the Changing Empire and the United Dragon Alliance. Pointing a hoof to a location to the east she said “here is the United Dragon Alliance.” Dragnor asked “how long will it take to get there?” Twilight smiled “not long a few hours.” A short time later Kendar handed him a small device “that is a directional device tuned to the planets magnetic pole so you won’t get lost the U.D.A is to the east.” Dragnor asked “how will I know when I arrive?” Twilight said “you will know by the giant statue dedicated to Rackclaw the first dragon king and founder of the United Dragon Alliance.” Dragnor nodded as he said his goodbyes facing the group he said “I will return memory or not” as he lifted into the air and departed for the Dragon lands. A short time after Dragnor left the castle a knock came on the castle door Spike went to answer it when he opened the door he was surprised by what he saw. There was an adolescent yack standing outside the door. Spike said “hi how can I assist you?” The yack said “me bring information yacks in trouble.” Spike nodded and let the yack inside they walked past the censors and they did not activate he thought ok not a changeling. Before they entered to the throne room and Spike said “wait here I’ll tell the others your here” the yack nodded. As Spike entered the throne room Twilight asked “who was at the door?” Spike said “it was a young yack the alarms did not go off so he’s not a changeling so I brought him in.” They all stared at each other and then at Twilight who looked around and sighed “send him in.” Spike brought the young yack into the throne room. The yack looked around and said “nice place prince not kidding about how big place is.” Twilight asked “what brings you here?” The yack said “oh, me bring news about Yackyackastan strange creature come and take over.” Twilight asked “take over how?” The yack told them about the strange visitor the monster and how they appeared to be working together. Kendar asked “what did they ask for in exchange.” The yack said “not sure something about access to mineral ore in yack lands.” Cadence said “this is a disturbing development if they continue at this rate they could take over Equestria. They’ve already taken Griffinstone, the Crystal Empire, the Changeling Empire and the United Dragon Alliance something must be done.” Shinning Armor said “what are you proposing”’ Cadence said “it’s time to fight back Shinning, Kendar, Synora I would ask you to be the first in a new resistance movement to take our lands back.” Shinning said “I’m in.” Synora said “me too.” Kendar smiled and said with a chuckle “me three.” Zackmar said “count me in too.” Twilight said looking around at the others “I’m sure I speak for all the rest of us but we’re in too.” The others all nodded in unison. Rarity said “you will need outfits for your team stop by my shop later today for fittings.” Back at the Pontian base Metzel’s ship landed and he went to Hydoria he bowed and said “I have completed my survey of the planet my liege does this planet have a name?” Hydoria shook his head “not that I know of the technology here is limited, it does not matter what has your survey determined?” Metzel said “this planet has a single KV sequence magnetar star the planet’s orbit is 1.477 Au’s from its star it has a single moon. Scans have determined the crust consists of 8 continents several islands and 5 oceans.” Hydoria asked “have you determined what sorts of life forms inhabit them?” Metzel said “no my liege I only performed a topographical analysis.” Hydoria said “it does not matter we need to secure this continent first then we can expand our empire but first we need polonium-210 to power our fleet.” Metzel asked “does this planet have any?” Hydoria nodded “yes a location to the north on this continent has a supply it is uranium-238 we will begin refinement and extract the polonium-210 from it. Cmdr. Kalios has secured a supply and a shipment will be arriving in 2 solar cycles.” Metzel nodded “what about that troublesome town?” Hydoria said “we will be installing a new leader one who will spread paranoia amongst the citizens each one suspecting each other of either being a Changeling or a sympathizer.” He smiled wickedly “they will so busy be fighting amongst themselves to resist us.” Metzel said “if I may my liege we have the sovereign ruler of this land under our control and based on what I understand her word is law.” Hydoria said “yes but that town is a bastion of resistance and the leader of the town lives in a castle on the outskirts and shines as a beacon of rebellion. We repeatedly attacked them only to have some of my finest monsters turned to stone and put on display like common trophies. He gritted his teeth and clenched a fist “revolting.” He shook his head slowly “not to mention sending Blatomar’s to prime creator knows where.” Looking slightly upset “do you know how hard those things are to come by?” He relaxed and continued “a power like that could be useful to our cause imagine being able to turn planets or whole star systems to stone.” He smiled wickedly and continued “I have an idea I want you to sneak into the Ponyville castle and steal those gems.” Metzel said “based on what I understand they are powered by the virtues that the bearer holds. It stands to reason based on the information from Zabador’s research the gems act as amplifiers to the virtues they hold. ” Hydoria said “amplification?” He smiled “yes” he walked over to a nearby console and said “computer display Zabador’s research regarding project gladiator.” He looked over the scans and smiled “yes what they call magic are forms of electromagnetic energy.” Metzel asked “any idea of the source?” Hydoria said “no but I suspect it may emanate from either the planets core or its electromagnetic field or both, so far attempts to replicate this power have not been entirely successful.” He paused “wait you said this planets sun is a magnetar?” Metzel said “yes.” Hydoria said “that explains the source of what they call magic a magnetar star produces intense magnetic flares.” Metzel said “that explains the shimmering effect I saw when I entered the planet’s magnetic field.” Hydoria said “did you’re topographical survey detect any volcanoes?” Metzel thought for a moment then pulled out a small device and pressed a button an image of the planet appeared. Pointing to a location to the east “the dragon lands are tectonically active so are two other continents in the southern hemisphere.” Hydoria nodded “that means this planet has an iron cobalt core which emits electromagnetic energy producing a magnetic field.” Metzel said “makes sense but what about using this power off this planet?” Hydoria said “based on the findings from project gladiator this power can be used on any world that has a magnetic field.” Metzel said “so that means this power is useless in a space battle.” Hydoria smiled “not entirely we will need a portable power source all we have to do is scale up Zabador’s prototype we already have a template to build on. All we have to do now is isolate the proper resonate frequencies. To do that we will need to scan the gemstones in order to lean their composition. However, getting into the castle may be more difficult that we think Chrysalis said that they have some sort of security system in the castle. Based on what she said it sounds like a biometric scanner. So we will have to lure them out and that is where you come in I want you to pose as an investigator and scan the elements.” Metzel said “I have a better idea my liege.” Hydoria said “I’m listening.” Metzel said “I am sure the leader of this region can provide the information we need.” Hydoria said “very well but I want to have a backup plan just in case this does not work.” Metzel nodded “understood” then shifted to the form of Luna looked back at the equine form and said “I’m not sure I will ever get used to this form I like having apposable appendages.” The Luna doppelganger took to the air and flew towards Canterlot Hydoria pulled out his communicator and said “Hydoria to Holmar.” A voice replied “Holmar here.” Hydoria said “I require a ground based Malctitude.” Holmar said “as you wish my liege it will be ready by the next solar cycle.” The next day Holmar returned with a shuttle “the Malctitude is ready my lord but I don’t see a point to it they will just turn it to stone.” Hydoria smiled “that’s exactly what I’m counting on” he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small device “place this scanner on the Malctitude.” Holomar took the device and looked at it and said “wont the petrification processes affect it?” Hydoria said “it does not matter the device will activate scan and transmit the information as soon as the gems are activated. Send the creature out as soon as you’re ready unless you hear otherwise.” Holmar said “understood.” as he boarded the shuttle. Just then the Luna doppelganger returned and shifted to Metzel saluted and said “the ruler was not much help. She mentioned something about a great unicorn wizard infusing some gemstones with magic.” Hydoria just shook his head and said “it does not matter I had Holmar place a scanner in a Malctitude we will have what we seek soon.” The next day Holmar placed the scanner inside th monsters chest then lifted off from his location and soon came close to Ponyville and let the Malctitude out of the shuttle. The monster roared and began walking towards the town. A pony in a watch tower saw the approaching creature and sounded the alarm as the shield activated and enveloped the town. The monster went up to the shield and began banging on it causing the energy field causing it to buzz. In the castle of friendship Rainbow Dash flew inside and landed “there’s one of those weird bipedal monsters outside town banging on the shield.” Zackmar said with a confused tone “just one?” Rainbow nodded “yes.” Zackmar said “that’s strange.” Applejack asked “what’s so strange about that? They did that last time.” Rainbow said “yeah and we have the elements to deal with the monster Zackmar nodded “yes but there is something about this that does not feel right.” Twilight said “don’t worry well keep an eye out for anything unusual.” Zackmar nodded as the six ponies went out of the castle wearing their necklaces and tiara they soon came to the source of the disturbance. A single creature was standing there roaring and pounding on the energy shield as energy waves rippled across the dome. Each impact caused a buzzing sound. It looked like ripples dispersing across a pond Pinkie said “oooo pretty.” Twilight and the others looked around and saw nothing else no ships no flying monsters it did seem a little strange that this was the only attacker they usually they came in two or more.”. Applejack asked “it is a little strange they be sendin’ only one monster to attack.” Rainbow said “I say we turn it to stone.” Rarity said “I concur.” Fluttershy just looked around unsure. Twilight said “I have an idea be right back” as she vanished in a flash of purple light moments later she returned with Synora next to her. Then asked Synora if she could hold the monster still while they lowered the shield” turning to the others she said “ok let’s turn this monster to stone.” Synora looked around and said “wait something is not right.” Pinkie felt something as her tail began to spin in a slow circular motion she said “wait it’s a trap!” Rainbow said “what?” Pinkie said “slow clockwise spinning tail means trap.” Synora asked “what does counterclockwise mean?” Pinkie said “ambush.” Twilight said “if it’s a trap I will perform a scan of it” looking up at Synora she asked “can you hold the creature still so we can lower the shield?” Synora nodded and raised her hands as the monster began to go down to the ground it struggled against the telekinetic grip once the creature was on the guard lowered the shield. Twilight’s horn glowed as she passes a purple aura over the monster then as she passed over the chest she noticed something unusual she focused and drew out a small golden object. Applejack asked “what is that?” Twilight said “I don’t know but it has strange markings on it.” Synora said “let me see it.” Twilight levitated the object close to Synora who looked at it closely and said “this is a transmitter.” Twilight asked “transmit what?” Synora said “probably the resonance frequency of your elements.” The six ponies just stood there in bewilderment Twilight was the first to recover “how can they do that we don’t even know how the magic works.” Synora said “somehow they figured out the science behind your magic we should return to the castle Kendar will know what to do.” Fluttershy asked “what about the monster?” Synora said “Fluttershy can you use your, what do you call it the stare on it?” Fluttershy said “I’ll try last time I tried to connect with one of those things it wasn’t pleasant they act on mostly instinct.” Synora rotated the monster 90 ᴼ as Fluttershy rose into the air as her eyes grew wide the monster froze its expression softened. Fluttershy nodded as Synora pushed the monster back several centimeters before releasing it. The creature turned and walked towards the Everfree forest. Fluttershy turned landed around and looked at the others and said softly “don’t ask me to do that again that creatures mind is a terrible place and the things it said I dare not repeat.” The others came up and hugged the pegasus Synora knelt down placed a hand on her head and said “I’m proud of you, those are some of the most feared creatures in over 200 galaxies. You faced it down unscathed there are very few who can say they’ve done that.” Fluttershy looked up “some of? There are worse?” Synora nodded “I was on the planet Clomthos in the Hoag galaxy when I faced a Sabakatas a creature almost as large as that Malctitude only meaner. It has 20 cm claws and razor sharp teeth” she shook her head. “Its best known as a savagely ravenous creature with claws that could rip through solid tantilum silicate” seeing the confused look on the ponies faces she explained. “Tantilum silicate is the hardest known alloy several thousand galaxies use it on their ships outer hulls.” Rainbow asked “how did you defeat it?” Synora smiled “I didn’t defeat it per sé since they lack any sort of rudimentary intelligence they’re brains are the size of a small acorn. So I levitated it into a tree” she smiled and chuckled “by the time it figured out how to get down I was long gone.” At the same time across the planet in the United Dragon Alliance Dragnor was flying over the city of Lataria. When dragon with yellowish scales cyan spines and emerald green eyes flew up close and said “hi Troezen long time no see how you been?” Dragnor looked around confused “who?” The dragon said “don’t tell me you forgot about me already.” Dragnor said “what do you mean?” The dragon said “you don’t remember me do you?” Dragnor shook his head. The dragon said “you really don’t remember me do you? I’m Zamjar.” Dragnor shook his head sadly then said “wait that name sounds familiar.” Zamjar’s face took on a look of understanding then mouthed a silent o and said “there is a small café nearby that sells gemstones care to join me? My treat.” Dragnor nodded as the two banked to the west and soon came to a small outdoor café there were dragons siting at tables eating various food items. The two landed and sat at a table when a green dragon waiter came up and said “what can I get for you?” Zamjar said “2 bowels of your finest gemstones.” The waiter nodded and moments later returned with 2 large bowels filled with rubies, emeralds, safire’s and diamonds of various shapes colors. Zamjar took a claw full popped a few in his mouth and asked “what brings you to the U.D.A. and I’m curious why don’t you remember me? After the fun we had in Darvoria.” Dagnor picked up an emerald and said softly “I’m trying to find out who I am I thought by coming here it would jog my memory.” Zamjar nodded “I suspected as much when you said I sounded familiar what do you remember?” Dragnor said “I woke up in a cottage and my wounds were tended to by a winged yellow pony with a pink mane and tail. Since I did not know my name and I look like a dragon she called me Dragnor.” Zamjar said “your name is Troezen and you are part dragon.” Dragnor said “how do you know that?” Zamjar said “King Dargo struck some sort of deal with some strange creatures the U.D.A. got an abundance of gems out of it.” Dragnor said “deal? Oh yes I remember something about that it’s still a bit hazy.” Zamjar said “that’s good, last time you were here we went to Darvoria and you gave that sardonic dragon a cold claw when he wasn’t looking I still don’t know how you did that.” Dragnor smiled “it was a chemo stick and besides he was being a total jerk and he totally deserved it.” He grinned “yes I remember that I never saw any creature dance so fast yes I remember now.” Zamjar asked “you remember who you are?” Troezen nodded. Zamjar said “welcome back.” Troezen smiled “it’s good to be back I was shot down over a forest and my wounds were tended to by that kind pegasus I mentioned.” He sighed “if it were not for her kindness I would be monster food” he smiled softly “I do owe her my gratitude.” Zamjar asked “what about the Pontians?” Troezen lowered his head and said softly “I don’t know, as far as I know they probably think I’m dead.” Zamjar said “it’s a risk but it’s one worth taking.” Troezen nodded “yeah, your right.”